Thursday, December 31, 2009
Monday, December 28, 2009
Heart Risk of Obesity Greater Than Thought
Dec. 28, 2009 -- The link between obesity and death from heart disease may be even worse than previously thought, but health problems associated with being underweight may have been exaggerated, a new study shows.
Previous studies have shown that a higher than normal body mass index (BMI), a barometer of unhealthy weight levels, is associated with higher rates of death from cardiovascular disease. Studies also have shown a link between being underweight, or having a low BMI, with increased mortality from such problems as respiratory disease and lung cancer.
But scientists at the University of Bristol in the U.K. and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden now say they've found that the risks of death from cardiovascular disease for people who are overweight or obese may have been understated, and the adverse consequences of having a low BMI have been overstated.
The study appears in the journal BMJ.
The researchers examined data on more than a million pairs of Swedes, studying mother-son and father-son pairs over age 50. In the study, offspring BMI was used as an indicator of parental BMI.
The researchers' analysis of the data shows a strong association between high offspring BMI and parental mortality from cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers.
The data also suggested no association between a low BMI and an increased risk of respiratory disease or death from lung cancer.
This is important, they write, because the prevalence of obesity and average body mass index have been rising rapidly in industrialized countries.
"Academic and governmental agencies predict that these increases will generate adverse trends in the incidence of, and mortality from, diseases considered to be related to obesity, such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, and many cancers," the researchers write.
"These conclusions have important implications for public health practice because they suggest that reducing population levels of overweight and obesity or preventing their rise will have a considerable benefit to population health," the researchers write. "Suggestions to the contrary are probably misguided."
http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20091228/heart-risk-of-obesity-greater-than-thought?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Previous studies have shown that a higher than normal body mass index (BMI), a barometer of unhealthy weight levels, is associated with higher rates of death from cardiovascular disease. Studies also have shown a link between being underweight, or having a low BMI, with increased mortality from such problems as respiratory disease and lung cancer.
But scientists at the University of Bristol in the U.K. and the Karolinska Institute in Sweden now say they've found that the risks of death from cardiovascular disease for people who are overweight or obese may have been understated, and the adverse consequences of having a low BMI have been overstated.
The study appears in the journal BMJ.
The researchers examined data on more than a million pairs of Swedes, studying mother-son and father-son pairs over age 50. In the study, offspring BMI was used as an indicator of parental BMI.
The researchers' analysis of the data shows a strong association between high offspring BMI and parental mortality from cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers.
The data also suggested no association between a low BMI and an increased risk of respiratory disease or death from lung cancer.
This is important, they write, because the prevalence of obesity and average body mass index have been rising rapidly in industrialized countries.
"Academic and governmental agencies predict that these increases will generate adverse trends in the incidence of, and mortality from, diseases considered to be related to obesity, such as diabetes, coronary heart disease, stroke, and many cancers," the researchers write.
"These conclusions have important implications for public health practice because they suggest that reducing population levels of overweight and obesity or preventing their rise will have a considerable benefit to population health," the researchers write. "Suggestions to the contrary are probably misguided."
http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20091228/heart-risk-of-obesity-greater-than-thought?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Winter Break Exercises
Watch the video and try out some of the exercises. These exercises can be done a home with little space.
Wednesday, December 9, 2009
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Looks Like Rain
Look for the inclement weather schedule that is posted in the locker room. Dress in your uniform then meet at the facility listed on the schedule. If we are assigned to a classroom (Room 4, 21, T-21, 141) you do not have to dress.
Thursday, December 3, 2009
Student vs Faculty Basketball Game
Be there and come support your favorite PE teacher !!! Proceeds go to the Jimmy V cancer research center.
http://www.jimmyv.org/
http://www.jimmyv.org/
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
State's students getting a little fitter
The state's Fitnessgram test results released Monday show the vast majority of students still need to be faster, leaner, stronger and more limber - not only to meet state fitness standards, but to combat an ongoing national obesity epidemic.
"We all know we have a long way to go to eradicate what I call the silent epidemic of childhood obesity and poor nutritional health," state Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell said.
But Monday's results show a continuing trend in the right direction at a time when the state Department of Education says teenagers are three times more likely to be overweight than their 1980s counterparts.
During the Fitnessgram testing last spring, almost 34 percent of California's middle and high school students tested met all six of the state's fitness criteria, which includes a 1-mile walk/run, body-fat measurement and a series of strength and flexibility tests.
Last year, about 32 percent met the same standard, compared with 29 percent in 2007 and 28 percent in 2006.
School officials say public awareness campaigns and a greater emphasis in schools on nutrition and fitness appear to be paying off.
Rich kids, poor kids
Nearly 1.4 million students in grades five, seven and nine in 2009 took the test, which was administered from Feb. 1 through May 31.
As in years past, the Fitnessgram results illustrated the stark reality that physical fitness levels fluctuate based on socioeconomic factors.
In suburban and wealthier communities, students generally posted higher fitness scores than those in urban areas with a greater percentage of low-income students. In Pleasanton Unified, for example, 56 percent of students met all six criteria, compared with 23 percent in Oakland Unified schools. And in Palo Alto, 48 percent of students hit all six targets compared with 32 percent in San Francisco.
The results also showed a dramatic difference in fitness levels by race, with African American and Hispanic students lagging behind their white and Asian peers. For example, 27 percent of black fifth-graders statewide met all six fitness categories, compared with 39 percent of white fifth-graders - a gap that is mirrored in student academic performance statewide, a phenomenon known as the achievement gap.
Research shows that those who eat well and are physically fit perform better in school, O'Connell said. Keeping children active is "part of our strategy of closing the achievement gap."
Making PE count
The state requires 200 minutes of gym class every 10 school days for grades one through six and 400 minutes every 10 school days for middle and high school students, but those physical education requirements have been difficult to meet.
In 2006, more than half of 73 school districts reviewed by the state failed to meet those standards, including San Francisco, Oakland and Berkeley, according to the California Center for Public Health Advocacy.
A lower priority
Physical education often took a back seat to the basics as the state and nation focused on high-stakes tests of math and literacy, sometimes leaving little time or resources for gym.
Yet state officials said with help from the Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports - which promoted a program to get children physically active 30 to 60 minutes a day - districts are taking gym class more seriously.
In San Francisco, voters passed Proposition H in 2004, which specifically designated more city money for physical education programs. And this year, the school board adopted a physical education master plan to help ensure schools meet PE requirements.
Fitness scores inched up this year in the city.
More California students cast aside their couch potato ways in 2009 and scored better in annual physical fitness tests than in recent years.
"This is definitely a priority," said district spokeswoman Gentle Blythe.
Student fitness tests
The annual Fitnessgram test includes six content areas: aerobic capacity, body composition, abdominal strength, trunk strength, upper-body strength and flexibility. Students must complete a physical task to demonstrate their ability in each area.
Example: One option for the aerobic portion is a 1-mile run. To pass, students must complete the distance in the following time frames (in minutes) set by the Department of Education:
Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/01/MNK21ASIR7.DTL&tsp=1#ixzz0YSXguhWe
"We all know we have a long way to go to eradicate what I call the silent epidemic of childhood obesity and poor nutritional health," state Superintendent of Public Instruction Jack O'Connell said.
But Monday's results show a continuing trend in the right direction at a time when the state Department of Education says teenagers are three times more likely to be overweight than their 1980s counterparts.
During the Fitnessgram testing last spring, almost 34 percent of California's middle and high school students tested met all six of the state's fitness criteria, which includes a 1-mile walk/run, body-fat measurement and a series of strength and flexibility tests.
Last year, about 32 percent met the same standard, compared with 29 percent in 2007 and 28 percent in 2006.
School officials say public awareness campaigns and a greater emphasis in schools on nutrition and fitness appear to be paying off.
Rich kids, poor kids
Nearly 1.4 million students in grades five, seven and nine in 2009 took the test, which was administered from Feb. 1 through May 31.
As in years past, the Fitnessgram results illustrated the stark reality that physical fitness levels fluctuate based on socioeconomic factors.
In suburban and wealthier communities, students generally posted higher fitness scores than those in urban areas with a greater percentage of low-income students. In Pleasanton Unified, for example, 56 percent of students met all six criteria, compared with 23 percent in Oakland Unified schools. And in Palo Alto, 48 percent of students hit all six targets compared with 32 percent in San Francisco.
The results also showed a dramatic difference in fitness levels by race, with African American and Hispanic students lagging behind their white and Asian peers. For example, 27 percent of black fifth-graders statewide met all six fitness categories, compared with 39 percent of white fifth-graders - a gap that is mirrored in student academic performance statewide, a phenomenon known as the achievement gap.
Research shows that those who eat well and are physically fit perform better in school, O'Connell said. Keeping children active is "part of our strategy of closing the achievement gap."
Making PE count
The state requires 200 minutes of gym class every 10 school days for grades one through six and 400 minutes every 10 school days for middle and high school students, but those physical education requirements have been difficult to meet.
In 2006, more than half of 73 school districts reviewed by the state failed to meet those standards, including San Francisco, Oakland and Berkeley, according to the California Center for Public Health Advocacy.
A lower priority
Physical education often took a back seat to the basics as the state and nation focused on high-stakes tests of math and literacy, sometimes leaving little time or resources for gym.
Yet state officials said with help from the Governor's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports - which promoted a program to get children physically active 30 to 60 minutes a day - districts are taking gym class more seriously.
In San Francisco, voters passed Proposition H in 2004, which specifically designated more city money for physical education programs. And this year, the school board adopted a physical education master plan to help ensure schools meet PE requirements.
Fitness scores inched up this year in the city.
More California students cast aside their couch potato ways in 2009 and scored better in annual physical fitness tests than in recent years.
"This is definitely a priority," said district spokeswoman Gentle Blythe.
Student fitness tests
The annual Fitnessgram test includes six content areas: aerobic capacity, body composition, abdominal strength, trunk strength, upper-body strength and flexibility. Students must complete a physical task to demonstrate their ability in each area.
Example: One option for the aerobic portion is a 1-mile run. To pass, students must complete the distance in the following time frames (in minutes) set by the Department of Education:
Read more: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/12/01/MNK21ASIR7.DTL&tsp=1#ixzz0YSXguhWe
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Friday, November 20, 2009
Co-Curricular Day
“Nobody trips over mountains. It is the small pebble that causes you to stumble. Pass all the pebbles in your path and you will find you have crossed the mountain.”
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Circuit Group Project
Directions:
• Each group will work together to create a circuit for the class to participate in.
• Each group must create a circuit with a variety of different exercises. A minimum of 12 exercises is required.
• Be creative and work cooperatively
• Requested materials must be submitted and approved 24 hours in advance. (mats, cones, jump ropes, ect )
• Each group must explain your circuit to the class and explain each exercise.
Click on chart to enlarge
• Each group will work together to create a circuit for the class to participate in.
• Each group must create a circuit with a variety of different exercises. A minimum of 12 exercises is required.
• Be creative and work cooperatively
• Requested materials must be submitted and approved 24 hours in advance. (mats, cones, jump ropes, ect )
• Each group must explain your circuit to the class and explain each exercise.
Click on chart to enlarge
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Portfolios Due 11/4/09
Portfolio are due on Wednesday November 4th.
You must have the following documents in order and in the portfolio inserts.
1) Cover page
2) Syllabus
3) Autobiography
4) Weight Training Work Out Card
5) Anatomy Muscle Handout
6) Anatomy Quiz
7) Tennis Handout
8) Heart Rate Notes and Calculations
9) S.M.A.R.T. Goals
You must have the following documents in order and in the portfolio inserts.
1) Cover page
2) Syllabus
3) Autobiography
4) Weight Training Work Out Card
5) Anatomy Muscle Handout
6) Anatomy Quiz
7) Tennis Handout
8) Heart Rate Notes and Calculations
9) S.M.A.R.T. Goals
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
How to Maintain a High Level of Concentration during a Tennis Match
Maintaining concentration in tennis is a challenging task
You've probably noticed that maintaining concentration through a whole tennis match is not easy.
Most tennis players actually start a match highly focused, but then they get distracted or mentally tired and this results in lack of concentration.
Can we stay focused through the whole match?
To completely prevent concentration loss is impossible. We are humans and not robots. Our minds keep producing thoughts, even when we don't want them to.
Our emotions arise when a situation in the external world partially matches a past situation in which we experienced pain.
So instead of feeling discouraged about losing your concentration, work on bringing it back to a high level.
Here are 3 ways of doing that when playing tennis:
1. Set a Goal
Concentration is, by definition, being focused on only one thought or object or action. And you lose concentration when you start focusing on more things.
To prevent distraction, you need to set a goal which is more important than other distractions. In tennis this would generally be:
a) Your main strategy - playing to the backhand, moving your opponent, playing low, sliced balls ...
b) Tracking the ball - I prefer the term tracking to watching. Watching doesn't have to be really focused, while tracking is. Track the ball from your opponent's racket to yours, and back.
This occupies the mind so much that you don't get distracted by other things.
2. Control the Ups and Downs of Concentration
If you try to sprint at full speed, you can do that probably for 10 seconds, and then you'll slow down a lot. If you don't take a break and try to keep running you'll run more and more slowly.
But if you take a brief break, get some air and rest a little bit, you'll be able to sprint at almost full speed again.
It's the same with concentration. You must control the breaks when your mind can rest from the mental effort that concentration requires. These breaks include:
a) Breaks between the points - As soon as the point ends, analyze for a few seconds what happened (if needed) and then let go for 10 seconds. By letting go, I mean let go of thinking about the next point or what you did wrong or anything similar.
Just walk around, breathe, fix your strings and try to keep an empty mind. Then start preparing for the next point (either serve or return), and either remind yourself of your main strategy or decide on a new one.
b) Breaks between games - do the same, except now you have more time for everything. You can spend a little more time analyzing what happened in the last two games, but then take a break from thinking and let your mind rest.
If thoughts keep coming and you cannot empty your mind for half a minute, then keep yourself occupied with various tasks like: fixing the strings, drinking in small sips, drying yourself with a towel, and so on.
Eventually, it's better to learn to just empty your mind for the break. That's how you'll mentally rest and be able to raise your concentration again when the points begin.
3. Monitor Your Concentration and Bring It Up, If Needed.
Try to check your level of concentration from 1 to 10 every now and then. At first, you'll probably forget to do that, since it's not often that we observe ourselves and our thinking.
When I did mental training with players on court, I would ask them once per game where they were regarding the concentration.
Most had no problems identifying their level, saying it was at 6 or 8.
Once you know that your concentration is not high enough, you can refocus by reminding yourself of the goal or just by fixing your eyes on the ball, even if your opponent is just tapping it to the ground.
Eventually, you become more aware of your concentration level and you know how to keep it up for a longer time.
Poor concentration is actually an often overlooked cause of mistakes. Most people only see a missed forehand, but what they don't see is that the player's concentration dropped and he was unable to track the ball well or make a quick and correct decision.
You also hear commentators and players mention that to win against a good player, you need to exploit that little lapse of concentration that they might have once per set.
If you can master the art of concentration and keep it up longer during the point and during the whole match, you'll be the likely winner.
You've probably noticed that maintaining concentration through a whole tennis match is not easy.
Most tennis players actually start a match highly focused, but then they get distracted or mentally tired and this results in lack of concentration.
Can we stay focused through the whole match?
To completely prevent concentration loss is impossible. We are humans and not robots. Our minds keep producing thoughts, even when we don't want them to.
Our emotions arise when a situation in the external world partially matches a past situation in which we experienced pain.
So instead of feeling discouraged about losing your concentration, work on bringing it back to a high level.
Here are 3 ways of doing that when playing tennis:
1. Set a Goal
Concentration is, by definition, being focused on only one thought or object or action. And you lose concentration when you start focusing on more things.
To prevent distraction, you need to set a goal which is more important than other distractions. In tennis this would generally be:
a) Your main strategy - playing to the backhand, moving your opponent, playing low, sliced balls ...
b) Tracking the ball - I prefer the term tracking to watching. Watching doesn't have to be really focused, while tracking is. Track the ball from your opponent's racket to yours, and back.
This occupies the mind so much that you don't get distracted by other things.
2. Control the Ups and Downs of Concentration
If you try to sprint at full speed, you can do that probably for 10 seconds, and then you'll slow down a lot. If you don't take a break and try to keep running you'll run more and more slowly.
But if you take a brief break, get some air and rest a little bit, you'll be able to sprint at almost full speed again.
It's the same with concentration. You must control the breaks when your mind can rest from the mental effort that concentration requires. These breaks include:
a) Breaks between the points - As soon as the point ends, analyze for a few seconds what happened (if needed) and then let go for 10 seconds. By letting go, I mean let go of thinking about the next point or what you did wrong or anything similar.
Just walk around, breathe, fix your strings and try to keep an empty mind. Then start preparing for the next point (either serve or return), and either remind yourself of your main strategy or decide on a new one.
b) Breaks between games - do the same, except now you have more time for everything. You can spend a little more time analyzing what happened in the last two games, but then take a break from thinking and let your mind rest.
If thoughts keep coming and you cannot empty your mind for half a minute, then keep yourself occupied with various tasks like: fixing the strings, drinking in small sips, drying yourself with a towel, and so on.
Eventually, it's better to learn to just empty your mind for the break. That's how you'll mentally rest and be able to raise your concentration again when the points begin.
3. Monitor Your Concentration and Bring It Up, If Needed.
Try to check your level of concentration from 1 to 10 every now and then. At first, you'll probably forget to do that, since it's not often that we observe ourselves and our thinking.
When I did mental training with players on court, I would ask them once per game where they were regarding the concentration.
Most had no problems identifying their level, saying it was at 6 or 8.
Once you know that your concentration is not high enough, you can refocus by reminding yourself of the goal or just by fixing your eyes on the ball, even if your opponent is just tapping it to the ground.
Eventually, you become more aware of your concentration level and you know how to keep it up for a longer time.
Poor concentration is actually an often overlooked cause of mistakes. Most people only see a missed forehand, but what they don't see is that the player's concentration dropped and he was unable to track the ball well or make a quick and correct decision.
You also hear commentators and players mention that to win against a good player, you need to exploit that little lapse of concentration that they might have once per set.
If you can master the art of concentration and keep it up longer during the point and during the whole match, you'll be the likely winner.
Tournament Time !
We will be having a double elimination doubles tournament this week. Make sure to bring your portfolio to class for ground stroke post test.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Looks like rain
Make sure to check the inclement weather schedule. The schedule is posted in the boys and girls locker room
Monday, October 5, 2009
Great Job Weight Training
I hope everyone enjoyed the weight training unit and continues the journey of building muscular strength and endurance. Dont forget to bring your sportfolios every day this week for pre-testing in tennis.
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Monday, September 28, 2009
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
UC campuses brace for faculty-student walkout
University of California administrators say they want to keep things running as smoothly as possible Thursday - the first day of school at many campuses - when many faculty, staff members and students are expected to walk out of classes, host rallies and stage a systemwide labor strike for technical employees.
UC is facing one of the worst years in its history as it tries to close a budget gap of more than $750 million in lost revenue from the state and increased expenses. To balance the budget, administrators have ordered unpaid furloughs for nonunion employees, staff layoffs and course cutbacks, and are expected to raise tuition for next year, making it 45 percent higher than last year's student fees.
Those actions have infuriated employees and students.
"There is a lot of anger and frustration, and people need to vent that," said Dan Mogulof, a spokesman for UC Berkeley, where classes have been in session for a month. "The main concern is that the faculty are expected to meet their obligations to students - giving them notice about course cancellations and changes, and making sure that the course material is covered."
It's a sentiment echoed by administrators across the 10-campus system. The last thing they want Thursday are empty classrooms - or rooms filled with students with no one at the podium to teach them. But it's a possibility on many campuses.
Since late August, some UC faculty members have been urging all instructors to walk off the job Sept. 24 to protest the university's handling of its crisis and a policy that furlough days not be taken on days they teach. More than 1,000 professors and associate professors across all campuses have signed a petition urging the walkout.
Other faculty members at UC Berkeley have taken a different approach, forming a group called Save the University. They support their colleagues who plan to walk out, but will hold educational forums on UC's financial troubles from the perspective that there are better ways to bolster the university.
Even so, many of the same faculty members may cancel classes or hold them off campus to avoid crossing a picket line by the University Professional and Technical Employees union, which plans a one-day strike because it has been working without a contract for 18 months.
Meanwhile, some student groups have issued statements in support of their instructors.
Amid all of this, campus administrators say they are hoping for business as usual.
"I think that most of our classes will go off without a hitch," said Patricia Turner, vice provost for undergraduate studies at UC Davis, which starts school Thursday.
"We completely support freedom of speech," she added.
It's a message the campuses are sending to the protesters - even as they urge students and faculty to go to class.
"I understand that on some campuses, including ours, labor actions could impact the opening of classes this Thursday," UC Santa Cruz Provost David Kliger said in a message to all employees sent Monday. "I hope that those who participate in this action try to minimize disruption to our students - the people we are here to serve."
Some faculty members want a different message.
"I'd like them to talk to the students who are going to have to drop out because they can't meet the (expected) tuition increases," said Shannon Steen, a UC Berkeley associate professor of theater. "These are the students who are going to be hurt the most."
UC is facing one of the worst years in its history as it tries to close a budget gap of more than $750 million in lost revenue from the state and increased expenses. To balance the budget, administrators have ordered unpaid furloughs for nonunion employees, staff layoffs and course cutbacks, and are expected to raise tuition for next year, making it 45 percent higher than last year's student fees.
Those actions have infuriated employees and students.
"There is a lot of anger and frustration, and people need to vent that," said Dan Mogulof, a spokesman for UC Berkeley, where classes have been in session for a month. "The main concern is that the faculty are expected to meet their obligations to students - giving them notice about course cancellations and changes, and making sure that the course material is covered."
It's a sentiment echoed by administrators across the 10-campus system. The last thing they want Thursday are empty classrooms - or rooms filled with students with no one at the podium to teach them. But it's a possibility on many campuses.
Since late August, some UC faculty members have been urging all instructors to walk off the job Sept. 24 to protest the university's handling of its crisis and a policy that furlough days not be taken on days they teach. More than 1,000 professors and associate professors across all campuses have signed a petition urging the walkout.
Other faculty members at UC Berkeley have taken a different approach, forming a group called Save the University. They support their colleagues who plan to walk out, but will hold educational forums on UC's financial troubles from the perspective that there are better ways to bolster the university.
Even so, many of the same faculty members may cancel classes or hold them off campus to avoid crossing a picket line by the University Professional and Technical Employees union, which plans a one-day strike because it has been working without a contract for 18 months.
Meanwhile, some student groups have issued statements in support of their instructors.
Amid all of this, campus administrators say they are hoping for business as usual.
"I think that most of our classes will go off without a hitch," said Patricia Turner, vice provost for undergraduate studies at UC Davis, which starts school Thursday.
"We completely support freedom of speech," she added.
It's a message the campuses are sending to the protesters - even as they urge students and faculty to go to class.
"I understand that on some campuses, including ours, labor actions could impact the opening of classes this Thursday," UC Santa Cruz Provost David Kliger said in a message to all employees sent Monday. "I hope that those who participate in this action try to minimize disruption to our students - the people we are here to serve."
Some faculty members want a different message.
"I'd like them to talk to the students who are going to have to drop out because they can't meet the (expected) tuition increases," said Shannon Steen, a UC Berkeley associate professor of theater. "These are the students who are going to be hurt the most."
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Spirit Week
Monday- Nerd Day
Tuesday- PJ day
Wednesday-Twin Day
Thursday- Wild West day
Friday- Cardinal Color Day
Thursday, September 17, 2009
All 9th graders
Come show your school spirit and help us with hallway decorating. We will be meeting on Friday Sept 18th, from 3:30 to 9:00pm. We will be meeting in front of room 251.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
REMINDER !!!
Special Schedule: Lowell Professional Development Days
Wednesday and Thursday
Sportfolios due on the day we meet.
Wednesday and Thursday
Sportfolios due on the day we meet.
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Sportfolio assignment due 9/16/09
Autobiography
Instructions for your autobiography:
Write the story of your life. Include information about when and where you were born. Describe your immediate family (including pets); the schools you have attended; your favorite courses; your hobbies, outside interests, and special talents you have or awards you have received. Write of your plans for the future.
Your autobiography should be typed and 1 page in length. Include a recent picture of yourself on a separate page.
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Weight Lifting and Strength Training Tips for Teens
Q. What Is Strength Training?
A. Strength training is a program of exercises that increases muscle strength and endurance. Strength training is not necessarily the same thing as power lifting or even weight lifting. While power lifters use heavy weights to build large muscles, people who strength train may use lighter weights or resistance and multiple repetitions. You can do strength training with weight machines or free weights. But you can also do it with resistance bands, ankle or wrist weights, or using your own body weight -- like in a pushup.
Q. Is Strength Training Dangerous?
A. Strength training is not dangerous if you do it properly. It's a safe and effective way to strengthen muscles, look more toned, and help control weight. It also helps strengthen bones. But because teens are still developing, it's important to get an OK from your doctor and to seek professional instruction to make sure you do it correctly.
Q. Do Girls Get Big Muscles With Strength Training?
A. It would be tough for a girl to get big muscles with strength training. Girls produce less testosterone (male hormone) than guys, so their muscle size builds less rapidly. Without body building for a long time, girls who train will look very fit but not bulky. Guys, if you've started puberty, your body makes the right hormones to let you build bigger muscles lifting weights. If you haven't started puberty, you'll still get strong, but your muscle size won't increase that much.
Q. Is Strength Training Aerobic?
A. Endurance exercise like walking, swimming, or biking is aerobic, as your muscles use oxygen more efficiently to strengthen your heart and lungs. Aerobic activity increases your heart rate and keeps it up for an extended period of time. Strength training is anaerobic (meaning "without oxygen"), as your muscles work against the weight or resistance.
Q. What if I Don't Have a Gym Membership?
A. You don't have to go to a gym to do strength training. Teens can use resistance bands from a sporting goods store, free weights, and do water-resistance exercises. You can even use cans of vegetables or fruits from your kitchen pantry as free weights!
Q. Should I Use Heavy Weights?
A. Don't use heavy weights yet! Teens should start out with lighter weights, proper form, and more repetitions. A good rule of thumb is to start with a weight you can easily lift 10 times, with the last two repetitions being increasingly difficult. For some teens, this might be 1 pound to 2 pounds. If you are strong, you might start at 15 pounds to 20 pounds. When lifting, move the weights in a smooth, steady motion. Avoid jerky movements and sudden drops.
As your muscles gain strength, and if there is no pain, slowly increase the weight in 1- to 2.5 -pound increments if using free weights, in 5-pound increments if using gym machines. Stay away from very heavy weights until you are fully through puberty and growth, as it could damage tendons and bones. Talk to your doctor or PE coach about the type of weights that are best for you.
Q. Is "No Pain, No Gain" True?
A. No pain, no gain is a myth. If it hurts, you're using too much weight or resistance. If your muscles are very sore, do not do strength training until you are relatively pain-free.
Q. Will I Get Bulky and Inflexible?
A. To look toned and lean, it's important to do other exercises along with strength training, including stretching and endurance exercise (like walking, swimming, stepping).
Q. Will Strength Training Give Me Flat Abs?
A. You can't "spot-reduce" abs or any other body part with exercise. You need to exercise the total body for maximum results. However, properly done abdominal "crunches" will improve abdominal muscle tone. Again, you need to be trained in how to do these correctly for best results without injury.
Q. Do I Have to Breathe a Certain Way During Strength Training?
A. Always remember to exhale (don't hold your breath) during exertion, and inhale during recovery. Many people forget about doing this. But if you intentionally practice the breathing, you'll remember.
Q. What Can I Expect From Strength Training?
A. You'll feel stronger with strength training, and find it easier to be physically active. You'll have more energy and you'll probably lose weight, depending on how regularly you work out. Some findings estimate that for each pound of muscle you add to your body, you burn an additional 35 calories to 50 calories per day. So, an extra 5 pounds of muscle will burn approximately 175 calories-250 calories a day. That's an extra pound of fat every 14-20 days. Guys will look toned and see a difference in muscle size; girls will look fit and toned.
Strength Training Tips for Teens
For teens wanting to start strength training, here are some tips for getting started:
Warm Up and Stretch. Always warm up before starting your workout routine. A warm-up like walking in place or riding a stationary bike for 5-10 minutes boosts circulation and prepares muscles and joints for activity. After you warm up, do some stretching to increase flexibility. Hold each stretch for 10-30 seconds. Don't overstretch or bounce during the stretch, to avoid straining your muscles and joints.
As you plan your strengthening program, start two to three times per week for about 20 minutes. Allow at least 48 hours between sessions for your muscles to recover.
It takes several weeks to see results with a strengthening program, so once you make the commitment, stick with it. Over time, you'll notice a difference in your strength and appearance.
A. Strength training is a program of exercises that increases muscle strength and endurance. Strength training is not necessarily the same thing as power lifting or even weight lifting. While power lifters use heavy weights to build large muscles, people who strength train may use lighter weights or resistance and multiple repetitions. You can do strength training with weight machines or free weights. But you can also do it with resistance bands, ankle or wrist weights, or using your own body weight -- like in a pushup.
Q. Is Strength Training Dangerous?
A. Strength training is not dangerous if you do it properly. It's a safe and effective way to strengthen muscles, look more toned, and help control weight. It also helps strengthen bones. But because teens are still developing, it's important to get an OK from your doctor and to seek professional instruction to make sure you do it correctly.
Q. Do Girls Get Big Muscles With Strength Training?
A. It would be tough for a girl to get big muscles with strength training. Girls produce less testosterone (male hormone) than guys, so their muscle size builds less rapidly. Without body building for a long time, girls who train will look very fit but not bulky. Guys, if you've started puberty, your body makes the right hormones to let you build bigger muscles lifting weights. If you haven't started puberty, you'll still get strong, but your muscle size won't increase that much.
Q. Is Strength Training Aerobic?
A. Endurance exercise like walking, swimming, or biking is aerobic, as your muscles use oxygen more efficiently to strengthen your heart and lungs. Aerobic activity increases your heart rate and keeps it up for an extended period of time. Strength training is anaerobic (meaning "without oxygen"), as your muscles work against the weight or resistance.
Q. What if I Don't Have a Gym Membership?
A. You don't have to go to a gym to do strength training. Teens can use resistance bands from a sporting goods store, free weights, and do water-resistance exercises. You can even use cans of vegetables or fruits from your kitchen pantry as free weights!
Q. Should I Use Heavy Weights?
A. Don't use heavy weights yet! Teens should start out with lighter weights, proper form, and more repetitions. A good rule of thumb is to start with a weight you can easily lift 10 times, with the last two repetitions being increasingly difficult. For some teens, this might be 1 pound to 2 pounds. If you are strong, you might start at 15 pounds to 20 pounds. When lifting, move the weights in a smooth, steady motion. Avoid jerky movements and sudden drops.
As your muscles gain strength, and if there is no pain, slowly increase the weight in 1- to 2.5 -pound increments if using free weights, in 5-pound increments if using gym machines. Stay away from very heavy weights until you are fully through puberty and growth, as it could damage tendons and bones. Talk to your doctor or PE coach about the type of weights that are best for you.
Q. Is "No Pain, No Gain" True?
A. No pain, no gain is a myth. If it hurts, you're using too much weight or resistance. If your muscles are very sore, do not do strength training until you are relatively pain-free.
Q. Will I Get Bulky and Inflexible?
A. To look toned and lean, it's important to do other exercises along with strength training, including stretching and endurance exercise (like walking, swimming, stepping).
Q. Will Strength Training Give Me Flat Abs?
A. You can't "spot-reduce" abs or any other body part with exercise. You need to exercise the total body for maximum results. However, properly done abdominal "crunches" will improve abdominal muscle tone. Again, you need to be trained in how to do these correctly for best results without injury.
Q. Do I Have to Breathe a Certain Way During Strength Training?
A. Always remember to exhale (don't hold your breath) during exertion, and inhale during recovery. Many people forget about doing this. But if you intentionally practice the breathing, you'll remember.
Q. What Can I Expect From Strength Training?
A. You'll feel stronger with strength training, and find it easier to be physically active. You'll have more energy and you'll probably lose weight, depending on how regularly you work out. Some findings estimate that for each pound of muscle you add to your body, you burn an additional 35 calories to 50 calories per day. So, an extra 5 pounds of muscle will burn approximately 175 calories-250 calories a day. That's an extra pound of fat every 14-20 days. Guys will look toned and see a difference in muscle size; girls will look fit and toned.
Strength Training Tips for Teens
For teens wanting to start strength training, here are some tips for getting started:
Warm Up and Stretch. Always warm up before starting your workout routine. A warm-up like walking in place or riding a stationary bike for 5-10 minutes boosts circulation and prepares muscles and joints for activity. After you warm up, do some stretching to increase flexibility. Hold each stretch for 10-30 seconds. Don't overstretch or bounce during the stretch, to avoid straining your muscles and joints.
As you plan your strengthening program, start two to three times per week for about 20 minutes. Allow at least 48 hours between sessions for your muscles to recover.
It takes several weeks to see results with a strengthening program, so once you make the commitment, stick with it. Over time, you'll notice a difference in your strength and appearance.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Sportsfolio
A sportfolio is required for all 9th and 10th graders in physical education.
Everyone needs to purchase one of these,
A 3 prong folder.Please no binders only folders.
The following items need to be in the Sportfolio:
Title Page
Your title page should include the following:
Title - "Sportsfolio"
Your Name
Grade/Registry
Semester/Year
My Syllabus
Name of Instructor
Everyone needs to purchase one of these,
A 3 prong folder.Please no binders only folders.
The following items need to be in the Sportfolio:
Title Page
Your title page should include the following:
Title - "Sportsfolio"
Your Name
Grade/Registry
Semester/Year
My Syllabus
Name of Instructor
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Welcome to my page
Welcome new and returning Lowell students. I hope you had a fun,relaxing,and active summer. I look forward to getting to know each and every one of you this Fall. Be sure to bookmark this page so you can quickly and easily view updates, assignments,and special instructions. Good luck and remember the school year will be as good as you make it!
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
First day back at work
Today was the first day back at work for all SFUSD teachers. Summer is over. The good news is that I will be back at Lowell High School.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Weight lifting benefits breast cancer survivors
Occupational therapist Cathy Kleinman-Barnett works with breast cancer patients, but she has never encouraged women with lymphedema, a breast cancer-related swelling of the arm, to lift weights.
A new study contradicts recommendations that breast cancer survivors avoid weight lifting, because of swelling.
A new study contradicts recommendations that breast cancer survivors avoid weight lifting, because of swelling.
However, she may be changing her tune, thanks to a new study in the August 13 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine. It turns out that breast cancer survivors with lymphedema who engage in a progressive, supervised weight-lifting program fare better than their counterparts who do not lift weights.
Lymphedema occurs in as many as 70 percent of women who have breast cancer surgery. Sometimes lymph nodes in the armpit are removed for cancer testing, which can cause the clear fluid (lymph) that circulates in the body to build up in the affected limb. As a result, women must wear a compression sleeve and glove during waking hours.
"For so long, we were taught no heavy lifting and no resistance for our patients, but this article is shouting out yes to resistance and weight," says Kleinman-Barnett, who is a lymphedema specialist at Northwest Medical Center in Margate, Florida. "The benefits seem to outweigh the risks, and a weight-lifting program may help these women prevent injuries from everyday tasks by boosting strength in the affected limbs." Health.com: Fit at any age: Your 50s strength workout
Oftentimes breast cancer survivors were told to steer clear of weight lifting -- or even carrying their children or heavy grocery bags, because doctors thought it could worsen the swelling. The new study, the largest to date, seems to contradict that recommendation.
Don't Miss
In fact, the research team led by Kathryn Schmitz, an associate professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, and a member of the university's Abramson Cancer Center, found that weight lifting increased muscle strength, decreased the number and severity of arm and hand symptoms, and reduced lymphedema exacerbations.
"Our study shows that participating in a safe, structured weight-lifting routine can help women with lymphedema take control of their symptoms and reap the many rewards that resistance training has on their overall health," says Schmitz. Resistance training helps build bone density and can improve health in general. Health.com: How to spot symptoms of breast cancer that has spread
In the new study, 141 women with lymphedema after breast cancer treatment were divided into two groups. Women in the weight-lifting group received a one-year membership to a local gym. For the first 13 weeks, they participated in twice weekly, 90-minute supervised exercise sessions that included stretching, a cardiovascular warm-up, and abdominal and back exercises. The weight-lifting exercises involved low weights, and one to three new exercises were added at each session.
The number of sets increased from two to three, with 10 reps in each set, during the first five weeks. If the women felt OK, more weight was added.
After 13 weeks, women in the weight-lifting group continued twice-weekly exercise sessions on their own for an additional 39 weeks. By contrast, the women in the other group continued their normal exercise routine throughout the study period. All women wore a custom-fitted compression garment on their affected arm during their workouts.
Overall, the women who lifted weights experienced fewer exacerbations of their lymphedema, and they showed a reduction in symptoms compared to the women in the control group. Nineteen women in the control group had lymphedema exacerbations, compared to nine in the treatment group, the researchers report. A similar proportion of women in both groups showed an increase of 5 percent or more in their limb swelling.
Health Library
Kleinman-Barnett currently prescribes range-of-motion exercises, stretching, and massage to stimulate lymphatic flow in her patients. "I will now incorporate weight lifting using 2 to 3 pound weights, and slowly increase it, and teach them how to monitor themselves to be sure they are not increasing swelling," she said. Red flags that weight lifting may be making things worse include more swelling, heaviness, and pain in the arm, she said.
Dr. Marisa Weiss, the president and founder of the advocacy group Breastcancer.org, and the author of the forthcoming new edition of "Living Well Beyond Breast Cancer," said the new study is good news for two groups of women -- those who have lymphedema and those at risk of developing it. Health.com: Tips for staying hopeful if breast cancer returns
"For women who already have lymphedema, this is good news because we have not known how to get them back to moving and grooving again," said Weiss, who is the director of breast radiation oncology and breast health outreach at Lankenau Hospital in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania. "Our arms are essential to our ability to be physically active, and we haven't known how to advise these women in the past."
Lymphedema is more common after surgeries that remove most or all of the lymph nodes in the under arm area because there are few if any lymphatic drains left intact after such surgeries, she says. "If regular weight lifting with a sleeve in a supervised setting is OK for women with lymphedema, then it is reasonable for women with breast cancer treatment who are at risk of developing lymphedema to go back to some of the things they enjoyed in the past," she said.
Karen Strauss, a 50-year-old breast cancer survivor who developed lymphedema four months ago, is excited about the findings because she may be able to return to some of the exercises she did before developing breast cancer. Health.com: Can Twitter and Facebook help fight breast cancer?
"I used to do a whole workout when I went to the gym, but I have gotten away from it because I am afraid I would make things worse," said Strauss, a clinical social worker in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. "I have been afraid to do anything, but not anymore."
Strauss currently wears a compression sleeve and glove, gives herself light-touch massages, and does non-weight-bearing exercises to treat her lymphedema. But the new study results have convinced her to talk to her lymphedema specialist about adding light weights to the mix
A new study contradicts recommendations that breast cancer survivors avoid weight lifting, because of swelling.
A new study contradicts recommendations that breast cancer survivors avoid weight lifting, because of swelling.
However, she may be changing her tune, thanks to a new study in the August 13 issue of the New England Journal of Medicine. It turns out that breast cancer survivors with lymphedema who engage in a progressive, supervised weight-lifting program fare better than their counterparts who do not lift weights.
Lymphedema occurs in as many as 70 percent of women who have breast cancer surgery. Sometimes lymph nodes in the armpit are removed for cancer testing, which can cause the clear fluid (lymph) that circulates in the body to build up in the affected limb. As a result, women must wear a compression sleeve and glove during waking hours.
"For so long, we were taught no heavy lifting and no resistance for our patients, but this article is shouting out yes to resistance and weight," says Kleinman-Barnett, who is a lymphedema specialist at Northwest Medical Center in Margate, Florida. "The benefits seem to outweigh the risks, and a weight-lifting program may help these women prevent injuries from everyday tasks by boosting strength in the affected limbs." Health.com: Fit at any age: Your 50s strength workout
Oftentimes breast cancer survivors were told to steer clear of weight lifting -- or even carrying their children or heavy grocery bags, because doctors thought it could worsen the swelling. The new study, the largest to date, seems to contradict that recommendation.
Don't Miss
In fact, the research team led by Kathryn Schmitz, an associate professor of epidemiology and biostatistics at the University of Pennsylvania, in Philadelphia, and a member of the university's Abramson Cancer Center, found that weight lifting increased muscle strength, decreased the number and severity of arm and hand symptoms, and reduced lymphedema exacerbations.
"Our study shows that participating in a safe, structured weight-lifting routine can help women with lymphedema take control of their symptoms and reap the many rewards that resistance training has on their overall health," says Schmitz. Resistance training helps build bone density and can improve health in general. Health.com: How to spot symptoms of breast cancer that has spread
In the new study, 141 women with lymphedema after breast cancer treatment were divided into two groups. Women in the weight-lifting group received a one-year membership to a local gym. For the first 13 weeks, they participated in twice weekly, 90-minute supervised exercise sessions that included stretching, a cardiovascular warm-up, and abdominal and back exercises. The weight-lifting exercises involved low weights, and one to three new exercises were added at each session.
The number of sets increased from two to three, with 10 reps in each set, during the first five weeks. If the women felt OK, more weight was added.
After 13 weeks, women in the weight-lifting group continued twice-weekly exercise sessions on their own for an additional 39 weeks. By contrast, the women in the other group continued their normal exercise routine throughout the study period. All women wore a custom-fitted compression garment on their affected arm during their workouts.
Overall, the women who lifted weights experienced fewer exacerbations of their lymphedema, and they showed a reduction in symptoms compared to the women in the control group. Nineteen women in the control group had lymphedema exacerbations, compared to nine in the treatment group, the researchers report. A similar proportion of women in both groups showed an increase of 5 percent or more in their limb swelling.
Health Library
Kleinman-Barnett currently prescribes range-of-motion exercises, stretching, and massage to stimulate lymphatic flow in her patients. "I will now incorporate weight lifting using 2 to 3 pound weights, and slowly increase it, and teach them how to monitor themselves to be sure they are not increasing swelling," she said. Red flags that weight lifting may be making things worse include more swelling, heaviness, and pain in the arm, she said.
Dr. Marisa Weiss, the president and founder of the advocacy group Breastcancer.org, and the author of the forthcoming new edition of "Living Well Beyond Breast Cancer," said the new study is good news for two groups of women -- those who have lymphedema and those at risk of developing it. Health.com: Tips for staying hopeful if breast cancer returns
"For women who already have lymphedema, this is good news because we have not known how to get them back to moving and grooving again," said Weiss, who is the director of breast radiation oncology and breast health outreach at Lankenau Hospital in Wynnewood, Pennsylvania. "Our arms are essential to our ability to be physically active, and we haven't known how to advise these women in the past."
Lymphedema is more common after surgeries that remove most or all of the lymph nodes in the under arm area because there are few if any lymphatic drains left intact after such surgeries, she says. "If regular weight lifting with a sleeve in a supervised setting is OK for women with lymphedema, then it is reasonable for women with breast cancer treatment who are at risk of developing lymphedema to go back to some of the things they enjoyed in the past," she said.
Karen Strauss, a 50-year-old breast cancer survivor who developed lymphedema four months ago, is excited about the findings because she may be able to return to some of the exercises she did before developing breast cancer. Health.com: Can Twitter and Facebook help fight breast cancer?
"I used to do a whole workout when I went to the gym, but I have gotten away from it because I am afraid I would make things worse," said Strauss, a clinical social worker in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. "I have been afraid to do anything, but not anymore."
Strauss currently wears a compression sleeve and glove, gives herself light-touch massages, and does non-weight-bearing exercises to treat her lymphedema. But the new study results have convinced her to talk to her lymphedema specialist about adding light weights to the mix
Monday, August 10, 2009
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Free Museums
Free 1st Tuesday
Cartoon Art Museum
655 Mission Street (between 2nd & 3rd)
San Francisco, CA 94105
Tel: (415) 581-3500
First Tuesday is “Pay What You Wish Day.”
de Young Museum
Golden Gate Park
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive
San Francisco, CA 94118
Tel: (415) 863-3330
Also: $2 discount on regular admission with Muni pass or transfer.
Legion of Honor
Lincoln Park
34th Avenue & Clement Street
San Francisco, CA 94121
Tel: (415) 863-3330
Also: $2 discount on regular admissionwith Muni pass or transfer.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SF MOMA)
151 Third Street (between Mission and Howard)
San Francisco, CA 94103
Tel: (415) 357-4000
Also discounted every Thursday evening: Half price admission from 6:00p to 9:00p.
Yerba Buena Center Galleries
701 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Tel: (415) 978-2700
Free 1st Wednesday
Exploratorium
at the Palace of Fine Arts
3601 Lyon Street
San Francisco, CA 94123
Tel: (415) 561-0399
Groups of 10+ must have reservations
Bay Area Discovery Museum
East Fort Baker
557 McReynolds Road
Sausalito, CA 94965
Tel: (415) 339-3900
From 9a to 4p, beginning October 1, 2008. Replaces Free Second Saturday afternoons.
Cartoon Art Museum
655 Mission Street (between 2nd & 3rd)
San Francisco, CA 94105
Tel: (415) 581-3500
First Tuesday is “Pay What You Wish Day.”
de Young Museum
Golden Gate Park
50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive
San Francisco, CA 94118
Tel: (415) 863-3330
Also: $2 discount on regular admission with Muni pass or transfer.
Legion of Honor
Lincoln Park
34th Avenue & Clement Street
San Francisco, CA 94121
Tel: (415) 863-3330
Also: $2 discount on regular admissionwith Muni pass or transfer.
San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SF MOMA)
151 Third Street (between Mission and Howard)
San Francisco, CA 94103
Tel: (415) 357-4000
Also discounted every Thursday evening: Half price admission from 6:00p to 9:00p.
Yerba Buena Center Galleries
701 Mission Street
San Francisco, CA 94102
Tel: (415) 978-2700
Free 1st Wednesday
Exploratorium
at the Palace of Fine Arts
3601 Lyon Street
San Francisco, CA 94123
Tel: (415) 561-0399
Groups of 10+ must have reservations
Bay Area Discovery Museum
East Fort Baker
557 McReynolds Road
Sausalito, CA 94965
Tel: (415) 339-3900
From 9a to 4p, beginning October 1, 2008. Replaces Free Second Saturday afternoons.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Shaq fights The Big Show on WWE Monday Night Raw 7.27.09
I am not a big fan of wrestling but I thought that the acting was hilarious.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Freshman 15: College Weight Gain Is Real
1 in 4 College Freshmen Gain About 10 Pounds in First Semester
By Jennifer Warner
WebMD Health News
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
July 28, 2009 -- Students headed off to college this fall beware: The infamous freshman 15 is for real.
A new study shows that nearly one in four freshmen gain at least 5% of their body weight, an average of about 10 pounds, during their first semester.
“Almost one quarter of students gained a significant amount of weight during their first semester of college,” researchers Heidi J. Wengreen and Cara Moncur of the department of nutrition and food sciences at Utah State University in Logan write in Nutrition Journal.
“This study provides further evidence that the transition to college life is a critical period of risk for weight gain, and college freshmen are an important target population for obesity prevention strategies.”
College Weight Gain Common
Although other studies have documented the phenomenon of the freshman 15 weight gain, researchers say few have examined the changes in behaviors that occur as students transition from high school to college that may contribute to unhealthy weight gain.
The study followed 159 students enrolled at a mid-sized university in the fall of 2005. Each student’s weight was measured at the beginning and end of the fall semester, and the participants also filled out a survey about their diet, physical activity, and other health-related habits during the last six months of high school and during the first semester at college.
Researchers found the average amount of weight gained during the study was modest, at about 3.3 pounds. But 23% of college freshmen gained at least 5% of their body weight and none lost that amount.
There was no significant difference in the amount of weight gained by women and men in the study.
Reasons Behind College Weight Gain
Those who gained at least 5% of their body weight reported less physical activity during their first semester at college than in high school and were more likely to eat breakfast and slept more than those who didn’t gain as much.
Previous studies have shown teens and adults who skip breakfast are more likely to gain weight, and researchers say they were surprised to find that eating breakfast regularly was linked to greater weight gain in the first three months of college.
They say it may reflect more frequent meals at all-you-can-eat dining facilities at college, and more research is needed to clarify this finding.
“In general, our findings are consistent with the findings of others who report the transition from high school to college promotes changes in behavior and environment that may support weight gain,” they conclude.
By Jennifer Warner
WebMD Health News
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
July 28, 2009 -- Students headed off to college this fall beware: The infamous freshman 15 is for real.
A new study shows that nearly one in four freshmen gain at least 5% of their body weight, an average of about 10 pounds, during their first semester.
“Almost one quarter of students gained a significant amount of weight during their first semester of college,” researchers Heidi J. Wengreen and Cara Moncur of the department of nutrition and food sciences at Utah State University in Logan write in Nutrition Journal.
“This study provides further evidence that the transition to college life is a critical period of risk for weight gain, and college freshmen are an important target population for obesity prevention strategies.”
College Weight Gain Common
Although other studies have documented the phenomenon of the freshman 15 weight gain, researchers say few have examined the changes in behaviors that occur as students transition from high school to college that may contribute to unhealthy weight gain.
The study followed 159 students enrolled at a mid-sized university in the fall of 2005. Each student’s weight was measured at the beginning and end of the fall semester, and the participants also filled out a survey about their diet, physical activity, and other health-related habits during the last six months of high school and during the first semester at college.
Researchers found the average amount of weight gained during the study was modest, at about 3.3 pounds. But 23% of college freshmen gained at least 5% of their body weight and none lost that amount.
There was no significant difference in the amount of weight gained by women and men in the study.
Reasons Behind College Weight Gain
Those who gained at least 5% of their body weight reported less physical activity during their first semester at college than in high school and were more likely to eat breakfast and slept more than those who didn’t gain as much.
Previous studies have shown teens and adults who skip breakfast are more likely to gain weight, and researchers say they were surprised to find that eating breakfast regularly was linked to greater weight gain in the first three months of college.
They say it may reflect more frequent meals at all-you-can-eat dining facilities at college, and more research is needed to clarify this finding.
“In general, our findings are consistent with the findings of others who report the transition from high school to college promotes changes in behavior and environment that may support weight gain,” they conclude.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Obesity Costs U.S. $147 Billion a Year
July 27, 2009 - Obesity costs the U.S. health care system up to $147 billion a year: An extra $1,429 per year for each obese person.
It's not obesity itself that costs so much. It's the bad health that comes with it, says a new study.
"The medical costs attributable to obesity are almost entirely a result of costs generated from treating the diseases obesity promotes," lead study author Eric A. Finkelstein, PhD, director of North Carolina's RTI Public Health Economics Program, says in a news release.
Those diseases include heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and stroke.
If nobody in the U.S. were obese, we'd spend 9% less on health care. But more than a third of us are obese -- and another third of us are overweight.
That's a scary statistic. Here's a scarier one: 17% of U.S. children and teens are so overweight they're in the top 5% of body size for their age on growth charts. A less nice way to put it: these kids already are obese.
The health-related costs of obesity are rising. That's because more and more people are becoming obese, Finkelstein and colleagues calculate.
http://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20090727/obestiy-costs-us-147-billion-dollars-a-year?src=RSS_PUBLIC
It's not obesity itself that costs so much. It's the bad health that comes with it, says a new study.
"The medical costs attributable to obesity are almost entirely a result of costs generated from treating the diseases obesity promotes," lead study author Eric A. Finkelstein, PhD, director of North Carolina's RTI Public Health Economics Program, says in a news release.
Those diseases include heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and stroke.
If nobody in the U.S. were obese, we'd spend 9% less on health care. But more than a third of us are obese -- and another third of us are overweight.
That's a scary statistic. Here's a scarier one: 17% of U.S. children and teens are so overweight they're in the top 5% of body size for their age on growth charts. A less nice way to put it: these kids already are obese.
The health-related costs of obesity are rising. That's because more and more people are becoming obese, Finkelstein and colleagues calculate.
http://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20090727/obestiy-costs-us-147-billion-dollars-a-year?src=RSS_PUBLIC
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Tuesday, July 21, 2009
Tour De France
Stage 16- Swiss Alps. One of the toughest stages in the race.
Riders scaled the highest peak of this Tour, the snowcapped Grand-Saint-Bernard pass on the Swiss-Italian border that is 8,113 feet. Its sister, the Petit-Saint-Bernard pass on the Italian-French border, was the day's other big climb, and each was at least 13 1/2 miles.
Riders scaled the highest peak of this Tour, the snowcapped Grand-Saint-Bernard pass on the Swiss-Italian border that is 8,113 feet. Its sister, the Petit-Saint-Bernard pass on the Italian-French border, was the day's other big climb, and each was at least 13 1/2 miles.
Monday, July 20, 2009
S-T-R-E-T-C-H
Fifteen seconds is better than five, though five is still better than nothing when it comes to improving flexibility.
A new study out of the United Kingdom suggests a significant benefits from holding each stretch at least 15 seconds as opposed to five seconds or not stretching at all.
Twenty-four college students (average age 20) participated in the five-week training study.
Those in the five-second group performed each stretch nine times, while those in the 15-second group did each stretch three times.
While both groups improved their passive range of motion, those who held their stretches longer showed greater improvements in active range of motion as well.
A new study out of the United Kingdom suggests a significant benefits from holding each stretch at least 15 seconds as opposed to five seconds or not stretching at all.
Twenty-four college students (average age 20) participated in the five-week training study.
Those in the five-second group performed each stretch nine times, while those in the 15-second group did each stretch three times.
While both groups improved their passive range of motion, those who held their stretches longer showed greater improvements in active range of motion as well.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Obama NAACP Speech "Your Destiny Is In Your Hands... No Excuses"
NEW YORK - President Barack Obama on Thursday traced his historic rise to power to the vigor and valor of black civil rights leaders, telling the NAACP that the sacrifice of others "began the journey that has led me here." The nation's first black president bluntly warned, though, that racial barriers persist.
Visit msnbc.com for Breaking News, World News, and News about the Economy
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
MLB All Star Game
President Barack Obama winds up to throw out the ceremonial first pitch during the MLB All-Star baseball game in St. Louis
The American League has not lost an All-Star Game since 1996.
Monday, July 13, 2009
UC chief lays out 'draconian' budget cut plan
Budget cut proposals
UC President Mark Yudof will propose that the governing Board of Regents close an $813 million gap as follows:
-- Campus reductions: (40 percent or $325 million) It will be up to the 10 campuses to decide how to cut. Some have already axed programs and courses. Layoffs are expected.
-- Furloughs/pay cuts: (25 percent or $203 million) 80 percent of employees would have to take unpaid time off. No furloughs during class time.
-- Student fee increases: (25 percent or $203 million) Although no new fee hikes are proposed, fees have been raised twice this year, 10 percent each time.
-- Systemwide belt tightening: (10 percent or $82 million) This would include debt restructuring and other adjustments.
The regents will meet from Tuesday through Thursday at UCSF-Mission Bay. They will vote on Thursday.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/07/11/BA5D18KG4E.DTL&type=education
UC President Mark Yudof will propose that the governing Board of Regents close an $813 million gap as follows:
-- Campus reductions: (40 percent or $325 million) It will be up to the 10 campuses to decide how to cut. Some have already axed programs and courses. Layoffs are expected.
-- Furloughs/pay cuts: (25 percent or $203 million) 80 percent of employees would have to take unpaid time off. No furloughs during class time.
-- Student fee increases: (25 percent or $203 million) Although no new fee hikes are proposed, fees have been raised twice this year, 10 percent each time.
-- Systemwide belt tightening: (10 percent or $82 million) This would include debt restructuring and other adjustments.
The regents will meet from Tuesday through Thursday at UCSF-Mission Bay. They will vote on Thursday.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2009/07/11/BA5D18KG4E.DTL&type=education
Thursday, July 9, 2009
More Pictures
Best Pizza in the whole wide world. Grimaldi's pizza
4th of july
Ellis Island
Lady Liberty
Brooklyn Bridge
Contemplating life
Yankee stadium
Just like the movie
Only on vacation. Frozen hot chocolate
Times Square
Central Park
atlas
St Patrick Cathedral (one of the oldest church in the United States)
Rockefeller Park
4th of july
Ellis Island
Lady Liberty
Brooklyn Bridge
Contemplating life
Yankee stadium
Just like the movie
Only on vacation. Frozen hot chocolate
Times Square
Central Park
atlas
St Patrick Cathedral (one of the oldest church in the United States)
Rockefeller Park
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
